Wednesday, June 30, 2010

NEW Product: Milani Liquid Metal Intense Color Collection


Brand: Milani
Name: Liquid Metal Intense Color Collection
Size: n/a
Price: $4.49 USD

Milani’s new Liquid Metal Intense Color collection turns up the heat this summer with bright shades that shimmer like liquid and reflect & wear like metal.

This is a limited edition collection and can only be found at CVS (in the USA) from June to July 2010, so get them while you can!

Available in 6 great shades:
- Melt With U
- Melt Down
- Hot Metal
- Molten Rock
- Melt In The Sun
- Metal Gear

I'd love to get my hands on a bottle of Melt Down and Molten Rock!

image: press release

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Product Review: Softlips PURE 100% Hydrating Lip Butter

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Softlips
Name: : PURE 100% Hydrating Lip Butter
Size: 0.35 oz / 10 g
Price: $5.00 USD

I've tried lots of body butters, but have never tried a "lip butter" so it was pretty interesting to see this Softlips product and I wondered how different it would be from a "lip balm".

The Softlips lip butter has a "tube applicator that provides hydrating SPF 15 protection for very dry lips with zinc oxide, shea butter, jojoba seed oil and beeswax."

To Purr About:
- a teeny bit of this product was enough to full cover my lips
- super moisturizing
- not as greasy or sticky as other soft lip balms
- includes SPF 15, which is great
- I'm a little concerned that it could get too liquidy in the hot months
- hard, slanted applicator makes it very easy to apply

Claws Out:
- none

Final Comments:
I love this body butter! The teeniest amount was enough to completely cover my lips and leave them really moisturized. The applicator is easy to use and the added bonus of SPF makes this a great lip product.

My only concern is that because it's already quite "soft", it's probably not something you can tote around in your bag on those really hot summer days as it may melt quicker than other lip products.

However, I would definitely keep this product around and use it whenever my lips were feeling a little dry or chapped.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: Softlips Facebook page

Monday, June 28, 2010

Product Review: Lise Watier Duo Havana Kiss & Glow

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Lise Watier
Name: : Duo Havana Kiss & Glow
Size: 45 ml / 1.5 US fl oz
Price: $35.00 CAD

Available only from May to July, this limited edition Lise Watier product offers 2 products in 1 bottle: a shimmering body gel in the bottom and a shiny lip gloss at the top.

From the press release: "The light, non-sticky and non-greasy texture of the shimmering gel blends into the skin to enhance your sun-kissed glow. Its precious golden glitters leaves skin bathed in shimmering highlights. The gel goes on effortlessly, sparkles all day long and washes off instantly with soap and water. Its delicate aroma is reminiscent of warm summer days with subtle notes of sweet coconut. Use alone for a total luminous look, or blend with moisturizer for a more understated effect. The spatula-applicator is perfect for an easy, mess-free application. The creamy-textured gloss dresses the lips in a warm, shiny hue – a bronze shade that makes for the perfect, natural, sunkissed look..

To Purr About:
- gloss leaves a nice shimmer and a hint of colour
- gloss is light and not sticky
- has a convenient little mirror in the lid
- gel isn't drying
- light, fruity smell is really nice
- gel leaves fantastic sparkles on skin and gives skin a shimmery, almost magical look

Claws Out:
- have to apply the gloss with your fingers (which I always hate to do)
- spatula applicator (for gel) is a little weird to get used to
- spatula spreads on the gel pretty thick, so it takes a little practice to get it right. I ended up plopping some gel on my skin with the spatula, but then I had to spread it properly with my fingers
- after the gel dried and I was moving around, the sparkled inevitably ended up everywhere - on my clothes, couch, etc.

Final Comments:
I love the idea of this product. Two products designed to give you a really "sun-kissed" glow. It's subtle shade and shimmery sparkles really does give you a "magical" look and from every angle, I was, for lack of a better word, sparkling.

So after the messy application (I ended up applying both products with my fingers), I spent several minutes just admiring the effect in the mirror. It really rocks in the sun and would be great for an outdoor party.

However, be warned, as with any other product that "shimmers" I ended up with sparkles everywhere. Which isn't ideal, especially if you plan on wearing anything nice or plan on sitting on anything...

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: press release

Product Review: Olay Total Effects Eye Transforming Cream

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Olay
Name: : Total Effects Eye Transforming Cream
Size: 14 g
Price: $30.00 CAD

I've always stuck to Clinique eye creams because I think they're a fantastic product, plus it's the product I buy to get my bonus gifts! :) But I was excited to try Olay's Total Effects Eye Transforming Cream because I've been starting to really enjoy Olay products in the past year. It's a brand, like Neutrogena, that I can almost always count on for great products.

This eye cream is listed as a "7-in-1 Anti-Aging Booster". So, what are these 7 ways that it boosts the area around your eyes?
1. reduces the appearance of fine wrinkles
2. reduces the appearance of dark circles
3. improves dullness
4. hydrates for firmer skin appearance
5. intensively hydrates dry skin
6. renews skin texture
7. reduces appearance of blotchiness

To Purr About:
- no frangrance
- super rich cream
- a tiny bit goes a very long way
- not greasy at all
- dries super quickly
- I cound I could easily put eye makeup on aftewards and it didn't slip off or smudge

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
I really like this eye cream. It's super rich and luxurious, but isn't greasy at all and absorbs very quickly. As a test, I put the eye cream on, let it dry for 30 seconds and then put a pencil eyeliner on. Then I rubbed the eyeliner. A tiny bit of smudging happened, but that was it. Normally, the eyeliner comes right off if I don't use primer, so this eye cream definitely made a difference.

I've been using it for 2 weeks and although I can't confirm that it's made my wrinkles disappear, I have noticed that the area around my eye hasn't felt dry or stretched in a couple of weeks, so I definitely think this is making a difference.

As far as pricing goes, this isn't bad, considering I pay more than this for the Clinlque eye creams. Because you only need such a tiny bit, this jar will last a while and is worth the price.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten


image: well.ca

Get Real with U by Kotex

Okay, so this isn't technically a "beauty" post, but I think it's important.

When I first saw the TV ad by U by Kotex, I laughed. Because I loved it. Yeah, I know, a tampon commercial? Really? But it was so much more realistic than the "usual" feminine product ads. If you haven't seen the ad yet, here it is:



U by Kotex's site has lots of great areas to encourage girls to talk to each other about their period. In addition to creating a platform to make it easier for girls to talk, U by Kotex has also put together a line of products in brightly coloured and eye-catching designs.

Click Tampons, 18-pack, $4.59 CAD
Starts compact, but expands to full size with just one click. The slim applicator features a smooth tip. Comes in 4 fun, bold coloured wrappers and applicators in every package. Available in Regular, Super and Super Plus absorbencies as well as a Multipack for convenience (Regular/Super).

CleanWear Pads with Wings, 18-pack, 16-pack and 14-pack, average $4.59 CAD
All pads feature the CleanWear cover for fierce protection that’s super soft. Soft cotton-like side barriers and TruFit wings help keep you comfortable and keep the pad in place. Heavy Flow pads provide extra absorbency on heavier days (than regular U by KOTEX*). Overnight is uniquely shaped to get you through the night and provide coverage where you need it most. Comes in 4 fun, bold colored wrappers in every package. Available in Regular, HeavyFlow and Overnight absorbencies.

Liners, 50-pack (Regular) and 60-pack (Thin), approx. $4.59 CAD
Comes in 4 fun, bold colored wrappers in every package. Available in Thin and Regular absorbencies.
- Barely There Thin Liners - have sheer sides and are nearly invisible, providing discreet protection. Perfect for everyday use
- Curves Regular Liners - lighter day protection that fits the body

image: press kit

Saturday, June 26, 2010

NEW Product Collection: MAC To The Beach


"The seaside has a kind of golden, sexy alchemy we're all drawn to. This collection encapsulates it with the most soothing, sultry shades of summertime. A safe way to bronze, beautify, and get colour that looks sun-kissed. Close your eyes, and go To The Beach!" (from the website)

I don't know if it's the influence of a long, bleak winter or some other odd factor, but this summer I'm totally craving bright, vibrant colours and finding ways to add them to my makeup collection. I've never been one to go bright and bold, but I definitely want to do so this summer, and this lovely collection from MAC is very tempting!


Eye Shadow, 1.5 g / 0.05 us oz, $17.50 CAD
An Eye Shadow whose shade, finishing and packaging reflects the beach side glamour of MAC's To The Beach collection. Presented in a chartreuse compact with a shell motif in cream screened on the see-through window. Limited edition.
- Sand & Sun (matte): light peach
- Firecracker (veluxe pearl): frosted mid-tone red orange
- Sweet & Punchy (veluxe pearl): bright yellow green
- Humid (frost): intense green with shimmer
- Shimmermoss (veluxe pearl): green with green pearl

Eye Kohl, 1.5 g / 0.05 us oz, $17.50 CAD
An Eye Kohl whose shade and presentation pays is own colourful tribute to the beach side glamour of the To The Beach collection. The coral motif screened on the barrel does double-duty as a whimsical shade indicator. Limited edition.
- Float on By: dark green turquoise
- Rosemary & Thyme: mid-tone olive gold with shimmer


Lipstick, 3 g / 0.1 US oz, $16.50 CAD
A Lipstick that in shade, finish and overall glamour of look and packaging becomes a fitting part of the To The Beach bronzing collection. Features a coral-coloured case with a shell motif in cream. Limited edition.
- Beachbound (glaze): sheer frosted pale peach
- Lazy Day (lustre): light dirty blue pink
- Thrills (frost): rosy copper with gold pearl
- Funbathing (cremesheen): mid-tone bronzed plum

Tinted Lipglass, 4.8 g / 0.17 us oz, $16.50 CAD
A Lipglass whose style, design and shade could only belong to MAC's To The Beach collection. Its iconic touch: the seahorse motif screened onto the coral-coloured cap. Limited edition.
- Easy Lounger: light baby pink with multidimensional pearl
- Splashing: mid-tone blue pink with soft gold pearl
- Flurry of Fun: sheer sparkly peach

Lip Pencil, 1.5 g / 0.05 US oz, $15.50 CAD
A Lip Pencil featuring all the rich colour and sunny-day glamour you would expect from MAC's To The Beach collection. The coral motif screened on the barrel does double duty as a whimsical shade indicator. Limited edition.
- Life's a Breeze: soft pink
- Temperature Rising: loudmouth orange


Bronzing Powder, 10 g / 0.35 US oz, $27.00 CAD
A Bronzing Powder as glamorous to look at as it is to wear. Superfine formula provides shimmering, sun-glitzed highlights for face and body. Mirrored compact and carton both feature the collection’s signature coral-reef motif. Limited edition.
- Golden: muted golden tan-beige with golden shimmer
- Refined Golden: finely spun golden with soft pearl finish

Creme Bronzer, 6 g / 0.21 US oz, $30.00 CAD
Ultra-creamy and simple to apply, this uniquely formulated bronzer glides weightlessly onto the skin to provide sheer, sun-kissed colour. Builds effortlessly and evenly. Presented in a green compact with a shell motif screened on the see-through window. Limited edition.
- Beach Bronze: golden glow with soft gold finish
- Weekend: mid-tone deep orange brown with soft pink pearl

Powder Blush, 6 g / 0.21 US oz, $22.00 CAD
A brilliant beach-bound part of MAC's To The Beach collection, this blush is presented in a marine-green compact with a starfish motif screened on the window. Limited edition.
- Get-Away Bronze: mid-tone suntan


Lustre Drops, 18 ml / 0.61 US fl oz
Glamour in a drop! This essential summer highlighter makes a welcome return specially packaged to the To The Beach collection. Provides sheer, natural-looking highlights with a luminous, shimmering finish. Use on face or body. Limited edition.
- Pink Rebel: blue pink with gold pearl
- Sun Rush: peachy bronze with gold pearl

Bronze Body Oil, 50 ml / 1.7 US fl oz, $27.00 CAD
A shimmering body oil formulated to bring a sheer sheen and sexy gleam to skin. Soothing, naturally emollient. Its fusion of 3 botanical oils helps soften, smooth and moisturize skin. Limited edition.

Nail Lacquer, 10 ml / 0.34 us oz / $14.50 CAD
Revolutionary new high gloss formula. Provides no-streak/no-chip finish. Contains conditioners and UV protection.
- In the Buff: muted taupe avocado
- Scorcher: creamy bright coral red

images: maccosmetics.com

Friday, June 25, 2010

Product Review: Lise Watier Lip Kiss Crayon Gloss

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Lise Watier
Name: : Lip Kiss Crayon Gloss
Size: 2.8 g / 0.10 oz
Price: $18.00 CAD

Shade Tried: Coral Desire

To celebrate the arrival of summer, Lise Watier decided to expand their collection with the introduction of Lip Kiss Crayon Gloss: super-shiny gloss, lightweight and non-sticky, in pencils that you can sharpen like a pencil. Rich in plant extracts, this product hydrates and nourishes lips while keeping them feeling comfortable all day. The shimmering, creamy texture and pencil format make for easy, precise application.

Available in 4 shades:
- Passion Fuchsia: deep and sensual fuchsia
- Bronze Romance: an amber hue, natural, shimmery
- Coral Desire: a soft coral, slightly translucent
- Tender Pink: a dusty rose

To Purr About:
- fruity, almost candy-like scent
- basically, a really fat lipliner, but with lip gloss
- soft, moist texture
- glides onto lips easily
- nice subtle colour with a nice shine (not super glossy, but natural-looking)
- comfortable on the lips

Claws Out:
- because it's a pencil, you need to keep it sharpened, unlike regular lip products
- a little expensive for a gloss

Final Comments:
I wasn't sure what to think of this product. It's like a lip liner, but with a lip gloss. But it totally works. It's very moisturizing and feels really nice, gliding onto lips easily. It leaves a subtle colour with a nice, healthy light shimmer. All, in all, I really like this product. Although I almost never wear corals, because this colour is so subtle, I didn't mind the shade at all.

I do want to try one of the other shades, Tender Pink, since I prefer pinks and roses. The only drawback is that the price is a little higher than what I would normally pay for a gloss.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: press kit

Thursday, June 24, 2010

NEW Product: tarte summer 2010 collection

This summer tarte has added several new (and permanent) products to their line.


ReCreate silicone-free primer with Wrinkle Rewind Technology, $42.00 CAD / $32.00 USD
Formulated without parabens, pthalates, sodium laurel sulfate, synthetic dyes or synthetic fragrance. This silicone-free face primer smoothes skin and minimizes the appearance of pores naturally. This primer is perfect for those with sensitive, oily and acne-prone skin.

park ave princess matte waterproof bronzer, $38.00 CAD / $29.00 USD
Formulated without parabens, pthalates, sodium laurel sulfate, synthetic dyes, glutens or synthetic fragrance. A sister product to tarte's best-selling park ave princess mineral powder bronzer, this matte version delivers just the right amount of a sun-burnished glow and doubles as an easy contouring powder. This waterproof bronzer helps improve skin's texture, tone and clarity all day long. Comes in a light yellow golden bronze shade.

emphasEYES waterproof clay shadow/liner pot, $29.00 CAD / $22 USD
Formulated without parabens, pthalates, glutens, talc, sodium laurel sulfate, synthetic dyes or synthetic fragrance. Infused with micronized clay and reinforced by a natural waterproofing agent, these plush shadow/liners are a must for creating intense and long-lasting high definition eyes. An intense yet smooth cream that can be smudged onto lids as an all over shadow or used as a high definition liner using the double-ended brush included with each shade. These shadow/liners are housed in an airtight jar to keep product cushion intact from start to finish.
- black
- brown
- bronze
- plum
- indigo


multiplEYE natural lash enhancing waterproof mascara, $31.00 CAD / $24 USD
Formulated without parabens, pthalates, glutens, paraffin, sodium laurel sulfate, synthetic dyes, synthetic fragrance. Step 3 of the multiplEYE regimen can now be waterproofed! tarte's new multiplEYE natural lash enhancing waterproof mascara is perfect for those wanting to fortify lashes while increasing the appearance of lash length and growth. The spiral brush separates and envelops each lash in the nutrient-rich formula.


lock & roll
12-hour eyeshadow, $22.00 CAD / $17 USD
Formulated without parabens, pthalates, sodium laurel sulfate, synthetic dyes, synthetic fragrance. tarte has re-launched their waterproof-shadow with a brand new formula and new shades. It promises no budging or creasing. lock & roll is simple to use: step 1 - apply the cream shadow and step 2 - roll on the matching loose mineral-based shadow.
- deep sapphire
- burnt bronze
- deep amethyst
- moss
- onyx


rise & shine natural lip stain & lip enhancing gloss, $27 CAD / $21 USD
Formulated without parabens, pthalates, sodium laurel sulfate, synthetic dyes or synthetic fragrance. A waterproof, gel-based lip stain that imparts a natural glow, while the cocktail of tripeptides in the lip-enhancing gloss stimulates collagen on the cellular level. The result? A pout that's pretty, polished, and plumped-up. It snaps apart so you can stain and go.
- mauve
- cherry
- pink
- nectar
- nude
- berrylicious


image: press release

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

My new nail polish obsession

I don't know what it is, maybe it's because it's warming up and I've had a particularly awful winter, but all of a sudden, I'm obsessed with nail polish.

Seriously, you have no idea how weird this is for me. I NEVER wear nail polish. I have these tiny nails which I like to keep short since I'm pretty hard on them, so it just seems a bother to put polish on them. I've gotten a manicure maybe 3 times my whole life (sad, I know, but like I said - TINY fingernails). If I ever did wear polish, it would be very pale pinks, nudes or clear coats. Nothing fancy or attention grabbing.

So I have no idea what's going on, but I've bought more new polishes in the past 3 weeks than I have in my whole life. Eeek. And they are nothing like what I used to wear. I npw have a couple bottles of dark purple, some dark, dark reds and one shiny copper-y shade. I was in the drug store last week and am now obsessed with these bright blues and greens (dark I've gotten the hang of...neon - not so much).

Plus, as I work in a very corporate environment, I'm not sure how well neon nails would go over...

But I guess it's good I'm venturing into new territory as that just means more reviews for Cinnamon Kitten! I blame the lovely beauty bloggers I've been hanging around, online and on Twitter for encouraging this growing habit.

My nail polish collection before 3 weeks ago:


My nail polish collection now (do polishes multiply like rabbits? I'm beginning to fear that this is so...)



Since my hubby is back in school, our budget is pretty tight these days, so I'm only letting myself buy new polishes when I can find them on sale. But I'm really enjoying building my collection! Keeping my limited budget in mind - what do you recommend that I "must have" in my new polish collection?

NEW Product Collection: Essie Summer 2010

Brand: Essie
Name: Summer 2010 Collection
Size: n/a
Price: $8 USD

I can't stress enough how much I love summertime! Lots of bright new colours, cute accessories and fun beauty products on the horizon! There are already summer collections being launched and now that June is here, we can all celebrate and indulge!

"This year’s runways reflected the ease of the season with youthful, upbeat clothing in feminine fabrics," explains Essie Weingarten, President and Founder of Essie Cosmetics, Ltd. "I was inspired by the vivid pastels at Versace and the splashy florals at DKNY. I created this collection to reflect the youthful, fun-to-wear flirty frocks."

Available in 6 fun shades:
- Miss Matched: sweet, sheer, ready for anything pink
- Haute as Hello: racy, scorching coral
- Knockout Pout: hot supercharged pink
- Vermillionaire: heart pounding red orange
- Demure Vixen: iridescent cocoa mauve
- Pretty Edgy: vivid palmetto green

image: press release

Monday, June 21, 2010

Product Review: Jurlique Herbal Recovery Gel

Reviewer: ShellySuperstar

Brand: Jurlique
Name: : Herbal Recovery Gel
Size: 30ml
Price: $67.00 USD

When I was asked to review Jurlique’s Herbal Recovery Gel I didn’t really know what it was or what I was suppose to do with it - was it a moisturizer? Was it a targeted wrinkle gel? What was I recovering from? I wasn’t sure. The pretty, yet evasive packaging says "A restorative botanical concentrate to help renew skin vitality" and the fine, fine print on the back says that by using it day and night it would help "to minimize the visible signs of aging with daily use". Well that sounded good – who doesn’t want to reduce those horrid, crow’s feet billboard signs of aging?!

The first thing I noticed when I used it was the potent fragrance. I have sensitive skin and tend to be drawn to odourless products, so right away the scent put me off. But I had a job to do – to review this magical recovery gel for you, our faithful readers, so I continued on – and I’m glad I did.

I would say my skin looked revitalized after applying the gel. It goes on quite light, and doesn’t have any stickiness which I was expecting from a gel. I used the product for a week and noticed that my skin looked refreshed and hydrated.

You can purchase the Jurlique Herbal Recovery Gel from http://www.jurlique.com/invt/9101800.

To Purr About:
- I love that there herbs and flowers are gently tended and harvested by hand on their certified organic and biodynamic farms and the packaging contains 80% post consumer recycled fibre and 20% FSC certified fibre.
- The Gel was very light to use, not sticky and it made my skin look and feel refreshed.

Claws Out:
- The scent was a bit too potent for my taste, but if you like pretty flowery scents you may enjoy it.
- The price is high for a daily use product, but I would suggest using it on targeted areas.


Final Comments:
Overall it was a good product. The overpowering floral scent is the main reason I wouldn’t return to it, but others might enjoy it.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: jurlique.com

Thursday, June 17, 2010

NEW Product: Every Man Jack kits

Brand: Every Man Jack

Every Man Jack is one of my favourite brands that cater to men. They have these great scents and very "manly" looking packaging and products (soaps that look like wood? Awesome!)

So, if you're looking for a great gift for your favourite man, then check out these great new kits that Every Man Jack has just launched.

Every Man Jack’s products are free of dyes, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate and parabens, making them perfect for just about anyone, including the eco-conscience guy.

Modern Dad Kit, $15 USD
Perfect for a Father’s Day gift or simple token of your appreciation, Every Man Jack has made it easy to give dad a complete collection of grooming products that will keep him looking sharp. The kit includes:
- deep-cleaning Face Wash
- soothing Shave Cream or Gel (depending on your dad’s preference)
- healing Face Lotion
- protective Twin Pack Lip Balm
- toiletry bag

Fresh Grad Kit, $15 USD
For graduates, the next stage in life is just around the corner, and Every Man Jack has the perfect kit to get your budding professional off to a fresh start. All the products in this kit feature the brand's Signature Mint fragrance, which is derived from natural oils. The kit includes:
- Body Wash
- cleansing Face Wash
- hydrating Shave Gel
- moisturizing Face Lotion
- toiletry bag

Six Pack Kit, $25 USD
The Six Pack Kit includes six great gifts including:
- Daily Shampoo
- Body Wash
- Body Bar
- Face Wash
- Shave Cream
- Face Lotion
- toiletry bag

image: press release

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Product Review: De Fabulous Mini Twister Curling Iron

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: De Fabulous
Name: : Mini Twister Curling Iron
Size: n/a
Price: approx. $70.00 USD

I don't travel a lot (although I'd like to) but when I do, I always pack my straigh iron, so I was excited to try out the De Fabulous Mini Twister - a travel-size curling iron. How convenient!

From the packaging:
- spin the barrel with the touch of your fingers and no more wrist and hand fatigue
- ceramic/tourmaline barrel creates ultra-high negative ionic charge
- preserves moisture and eliminates frizz
- comfort handle with non-slip and heat-resistant grip
- travel size with non-tangle swivel cord
- instant heat up to 410 F (210 C)

To Purr About:
- heats up super quick (it was already too hot to touch in 5 seconds after I turned it on)
- swivel base for cord keeps cord from tangling up
- swivel iron part lets you turn the iron part with your thumb makes it super easy to curl your hair. I just clamped the end of my hair into the curler and then used my thumb to spin the iron around my hair
- small size is very convenient for travel
- comes with a nice, soft case makes it even more convenient for travel

Claws Out:
- no other indicator light other than the tiny red "on" light
- no stand so you have to be careful about where you place it

Final Comments:
I love the size and ease of use that this little mini curler provides. It heats up super quick and the swivel base and swivel iron make it very easy to use with no cord tangling. I didn't have to twist my wrist at all to get my hair curled.

I love the soft case that the iron comes in - this is definitely a travel curling iron! The only thing I would like to see is a bigger light or some indicator when the iron reaches a certain temperature.

Since I don't curl my hair very often, I'd love to get the mini straight iron from this company.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

To learn more about this product, or to find a salon near you that carries the Mini Twister, please visit www.defabulous.com

image: www.defabulous.com

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Product Review: Hawaiian Tropic Lime Coolada After Sun Moisturizer

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Hawaiian Tropic
Name: : Lime Coolada After Sun Moisturizer
Size: 480 ml
Price: $10.99 CAD

During my honeymoon in Hawaii I learned a lot about suncare, and how to preserve a nice tan. :)

One of the most important things to after-sun care is good moisturization. Keeping the skin moisturized and soft is really important as the sun can really damage the skin.

I've always used Hawaiian Tropic regularly for sun-protection products, but have never tried their after-sun products so was excited to give it a try.

To Purr About:
- a lovely, light tropical fragrance
- easy to use pump bottle
- creamy moisturizer is light and absorbs fairly quickly
- huge bottle for a good price

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
My husband and I have always loved Hawaiian Tropic products because the smell makes us think of summer. It's tropical and light and just...summer-y. So I was pleasantly surprised when this product didn't have the normal, signature Hawaiian Tropic scent, but something seriously addictive. It's called Lime Coolada and I love it. I think it's my official new smell of summer.

The moisturizer works really well and is easily absorbed. It makes my skin feel moisturized and less tight. The huge bottle (with handy pump) is a great value and definitely a useful product to have during the summer.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten


image: press release

Monday, June 14, 2010

Product Review: Softlips PURE 100% Natural Lip Polish

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Softlips
Name: : PURE 100% Natural Lip Polish
Size: 0.28 oz / 8 g
Price: $6.00 USD

I seem to be noticing more and more lip polishes on the market, which is a nice trend for me since I like having products specifically designed to help me keep my lips from peeling and wrecking my lipstick application all the time.

I've already tried a couple of very effective lip polishes, but none from a brand that focuses on lip products, so was excited to try the new polish from Softlips.

The Softlips lip polish "provides natural exfoliation for lips with organic coconut flakes and sugar and deeply moisturizes lips with beeswax and natural seed oils like sunflower, mango and castor see."

To Purr About:
- nice light coconut sent
- polish is gentle, but pretty effective and doesn't dissolve away too quickly, giving you lots of time to really give your lips a good buff
- thickness of polish means you don't need to use a lot
- definitely helped rid my lips of flaky skin and made them smoother

Claws Out:
- I don't like that it comes in a pot and requires finger application

Final Comments:
This polish is really good. It's gentle but effective and since the polishing crystals don't dissolve as quickly as some of the other lip polishes I've tried in the past (probably because of the coconut flakes), you can get a good polish with only a little amount of the product.

The only drawback (for me) in comparison to the other lip polishes I've tried is that this one comes in a little pot, which means you need to use your fingers to apply and rub the product in. I'm not a huge fan of any lip product that comes in a pot, probably because I'm kind of lazy and don't like having to clean my fingers before and after applying lip products.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: Softlips Facebook page

Sunday, June 13, 2010

NEW Product: freshMinerals tinted moisturizer with SPF 20

Brand: freshMinerals
Name: Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20
Size: n/a
Price: $25 USD

Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 protects and replenishes your skin while adding a touch of tint - enough colour to smooth and even out skin tone. With an SPF 20, loaded with vitamin E and C, the freshMinerals Tinted Moisturizer protects against harmful UV rays while replenishing the health and natural glow of your skin.

This will be perfect for the summer - I love products that incorporate SPF into them!

Available in 5 shades:
- natural
- pink porcelain
- nude
- sand
- ivory


image: press release

Saturday, June 12, 2010

NEW Product Line: Hawaiian Tropic Sun Care

While these aren't "new" products, Hawaiian Tropic Sun Care has recently unveiled bold changes that mark an evolution for the iconic sun care brand. With a focus on beauty and 'indulgent sun protection', their entire line of sunscreens and after sun products now offer a new, luxurious, upscale look and feel.

A new look: features beauty oriented packaging with a signature curvy shape, as well as clean, modern colours and graphics.

A new scent: the classic coconut fragrance has been enhanced for even broad appeal - a clean, fresh, coconut scent which will be phased in across the line.

A new feel: the sun care line has a new formulation of creme lotions and after sun products which offer a highly moisturizing ribbon of lotion.


What do you think?

I'm a big fan of sun protection products and it's definitely hard to find "great" products - greaseless, less SPF smell, water-proof, etc. Everyone has their own favourite brands, and Hawaiian Tropic has been a leader in sun care since I can remember. The scent of their products brings me back to the beach almost instantly!

Hawaiian Tropic SPF 15 Sheer Touch Sunscreen, 240 ml, $9.99 CAD
Indulge and protect your skin with this rich, creamy formula infused with an exotic blend of tropical ingredients.
- broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection
- waterproof
- moisturizing antioxidants
- exotic island botanicals

Hawaiian Tropic SPF 60 Sheer Touch Continuous Spray Sunscreen, 180 ml, $11.99 CAD
This clear sunscreen spray provides broad-spectrum waterproof protection against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, while exotic island botanicals soothe and antioxidants moisturize your skin.
- broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection
- continuous spray for easy application
- waterproof
- moisturizing antioxidants

Hawaiian Tropic Crème SPF 10, 180 ml, $11.99 CAD
This broad-spectrum waterproof sunscreen keeps your skin feeling soft and looking radiant. The new Crème offers a luxurious, highly moisturizing ribbon of lotion, which provides a uniquely pampering and indulgent experience.
- UVA & UVB protection
- luxurious feel
- moisturizing antioxidants

Hawaiian Tropic Lime Coolada After Sun Moisturizer, 480 ml, $10.99 CAD
Pamper your skin with this after sun moisturizer with nourishing natural shea and cocoa butters. Keep skin silky smooth with a fresh lime coolada scent.
- exotic island botanicals
- moisturizer with shea & cocoa butters
- soothing aloe vera

Hawaiian Tropic Mango Crème After Sun Moisturizer, 180 ml, $10.99 CAD
Has a unique continuous flow pump that dispenses a rich crème infused with exotic island botanicals and nourishing natural oils, shea, mango and cocoa butters, leaving skin feeling silky soft with a fresh island mango scent.
- luxurious moisturizer
- exotic island botanicals

Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter, 240 ml, $10.99 CAD
Pamper your skin with this luxurious after sun body butter. It hydrates skin for up to 12 hours with rich moisturizers and nourishing antioxidants.
- exotic coconut fragrance
- blended with exotic island botanicals including shea, mango and cocoa butter

Hawaiian Tropic Sensitive Skin Face Lotion SPF 30, 120 ml, $10.99 CAD
Dermatologist tested, this sensitive skin sunscreen for your face is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, oil-free, and it won’t clog pores. Gentle and non-irritating, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays and also contains moisturizing antioxidants for radiant looking skin.
- hypoallergenic
- fragrance-free
- non-comedogenic
- oil-free
- moisturizing vitamins A, C and E
- recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association

Hawaiian Tropic Lotion SPF 30 Island Sport Sunscreen, 240 ml & 60 ml, $10.99 CAD
Quench your skin with this moisture-rich blend formulated to protect and hydrate. This lotion is waterproof and won’t run into your eyes.
- biodegradable formula
- broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection
- waterproof
- won’t run into eyes
- moisturizing antioxidants
- includes a convenient 60 ml refillable travel pack

Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 30 Island Sport Clear Spray, 180 ml, $10.99 CAD
Like the SPF 30 Island Sport Sunscreen, this hydrating clear spray has a moisture-rich blend formulated to protect and nourish your skin. This sunscreen is waterproof and won’t run into your eyes.
- broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection
- continuous spray for easy application
- waterproof
- won’t run into eyes
- moisturizing antioxidants

Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen SPF 60 Kids Lotion, 240 ml & 60 ml, $11.99 CAD
Pediatrician tested, this sunscreen for kids provides trusted skin protection in a gentle, waterproof lotion that won’t run into eyes.
- pediatrician tested
- broad-spectrum UVA & UVB protection
- waterproof
- won’t run into eyes
- includes a convenient 60 ml refillable travel pack

image: press release

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Olay Pro-X 28 Day Challenge

Olay Professional Pro-X has challenged to 28 ‘real’ Canadian women from across the country to use the Pro-X Starter Protocol for 28 days and then blog about their daily experiences on a new website, www.prox28daychallenge.ca.

The Pro-X 28 Day Challenge website features profiles on all 28 testers, a map that showcases where they’re from and their daily blog posts.

Why do you need to visit the site? Well, you have a chance to read about these 28 testers and their blog posts, but you can also enter for a chance to win a $1,000 WaySpa.com gift certificate. There's also a coupon you can download to save $6 CAD on any Olay Professional Pro-X product.

The coupon download and WaySpa contest is available on www.prox28daychallenge.ca from June 1 to June 28, 2010, so go check it out!

Tuesday, June 08, 2010

NEW Product: Lancome Juicy Tubes 100% Natural Origins


Brand: Lancome
Name: Juicy Tubes 100% Natural Origins
Size: n/a
Price: $22 CAD

For the first time at Lancome, a 100% natural origin gloss featuring honey and shea butter.

Ten years ago, Lancome launched Juicy Tubes, a fruit-scented gloss in a tube which became a super popular product. To celebrate the 10th anniversary, Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama has created five limited edition playful and colourful packaging designs.

Available in 6 lovely shades:
- Crazy Raspberry
- Dot Apricot
- Rose Blossom
- Happy Honey
- Pop Art Hazelnut


image: lancome.ca

Monday, June 07, 2010

Product Review: John Frieda Frizz-Ease Weather Works Shampoo & Conditioner

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: John Frieda
Name: : Frizz Ease Weather Works Shampoo & Conditioner
Size: 250 ml
Price: $10.49 CAD

Ever since cutting my hair into a shorter style I have been using John Frieda’s Frizz-Ease Secret Weapon Finishing Cream product to style my hair. I love it, which led me to wanting to try the shampoo & conditioner that is part of the same line.

The Weather Works Shampoo & Conditioner is (from their website):
- Created for all hair types, Weather-Proofing Shampoo creates a barrier that blocks out heat and humidity providing essential preparation for weather-resistant hair.
- Contains a special ‘Shielding Technology’ that creates a barrier for humidity resistance, static control and UV protection.
- Formulated to provide silky-smooth texture and to control frizz year round.
Removes dirt and oil and rehydrates hair.
- Improves manageability.
- Helps tame frizz and flyaways and lays the foundation for blockage of style-ruining weather.
- Nourishes and softens for flawless style and silky shine in all weather conditions.
- Safe for natural or colour treated hair.

To Purr About:
- made my hair feel silky-smooth and healthy
- helped tame my unruly hair
- made my hair very shiny
- no major scent

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
To put my review in context – I have thick, un-coloured, cut into a bob, not too damaged (that I know of) hair. I don`t usually blow-dry, straight iron or brush my hair and I wash my hair once every day or every-other day. I use styling products daily.

I never was one to buy anything but the cheapest shampoo & conditioners available, but after trying many different products I have to say that the right shampoo and conditioner really set the stage for nice hair and easy styling.

At an acceptable price (for me) this product really delivers.

Only after the first use I noticed a huge difference. I usually wash my hair in the evenings and the next day have to style the crap out of it, but when I awoke I found my hair to be in need of less styling to get it to look the way I wanted it. Granted I don’t have a very complicated style (just a simple bob), but still – it was a definite improvement. Usually if I don’t wash my hair daily it means that I will have a hard time styling it the next day since I have 2 days worth of product and 2 nights worth of bed head to contend with, but the Frizz-Ease Shampoo and conditioner left my hair so soft and manageable that even after the second night I didn’t have to fight with my hair too much.

If that wasn’t enough, by the third use I noticed a definite reduction in flyaways. This product is awesome!

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: johnfrieda.ca

Thursday, June 03, 2010

NEW Product: Infiniti by Conair You Curl


Brand: Conair You Curl
Name: Infiniti
Size: n/a
Price: $49.99 USD

(from the press release) "Soft, sexy curls are now easy to create with the new Infiniti by Conair You Curl. The You Curl has a unique, clamp-free design and a cone-shaped barrel that creates a softer, less structured curl. Simply wrap hair around the barrel, hold for a few seconds and then release. The conical design allows the curls to start closer to the root, allowing more volume through the middle (large portion of the barrel) and the bottom will have a tighter curl (small section of the barrel). The effect is trendy, free-flowing spirals with no "clamp kinks."

The powerful ceramic heater features Tourmaline Ceramic technology which provides more protection, reduces frizz, helps eliminate static and does not have damaging hot spots. The ultra-high heat levels are instantly restored during use, and the 5 LED settings provide the ideal temperatures for all hair types. The stay-cool safety tip protects fingers during use."

image: press release

Wednesday, June 02, 2010

Product Review: Suave Body Wash

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Suave
Name: : Body Wash
Size: 355 ml
Price: $4 USD

Scent Tried: Mango Mandarin Refreshing Body Wash

From their website: "Infused with mango and mandarin extracts, along with skin conditioning Vitamin E, Suave Naturals Mango Mandarin Body Wash moisturizes in the shower and revitalizes your senses with a lively citrus and fruity fragrance bliss."

To Purr About:
- left my skin feeling clean
- lovely citrus scent when being used
- lathered up very well
- did not irritate my super sensitive skin
- scent did not last after showering was done

Claws Out:
- not super moisturizing

Final Comments:
After using this product for a while, I have to say that although I'm not blown away by it, I am pretty satisfied with the Suave body wash. For the price I think it is a decent body wash and it left my skin feeling clean and crisp.

I really enjoy the citrus scent in the shower (very much like a Vick’s vitamin C drop). I do wish the scent lasted when I was out of the shower, but in hindsight it is probably a good thing the scent doesn’t last or stick to the skin as I don’t really want to smell like citrus outside in the summer as that might attract insects. It also means that the scent won’t mix with any lotions or moisturizers I use afterwards.

I don’t find the Suave body wash very moisturizing, but in the summer when my skin isn’t as dry that’s okay.

Rating (out of 5):



Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: suave.com

Tuesday, June 01, 2010

NEW Product: Tweezerman Paw Print products (for a good cause!)

Brand: Tweezerman

Tweezerman has tails wagging with the launch of its new Paw Print Mini Slant Tweezer and Matchbox Itty Bitty Paw Print Files, which feature tiny black paw prints on a white background

Forging a special relationship with the Humane Society of the United States, Tweezerman is pleased to donate $1.00 from the purchase of each Paw Print Mini Slant Tweezer and $0.50 from the purchase of each Matchbox Itty Bitty Paw Print Files to the organization in an effort to assist with their mission to "create a humane and sustainable world for all animals – a world that will also benefit people."

Paw Print Mini Slant Tweezer, $15.00 USD
A mere 2.5" long, this mini tweezer comfortably fits in the palm of your hand and features perfectly aligned tips to grab the hair every time with the smoothest, true precision. Consistently acclaimed as setting the standard for quality and excellence and for over 25 years.

Matchbox Itty Bitty Paw Print Files, $4.00 USD
Designed to fit easily into the palm of your hand and can be stored in any size purse, pocket or travel bag. Rough emery grains on one side are suitable to use on tough nails, while a fine grade of emery on the other side is appropriate for more effective and smoother nail filing. Great for quick nail fixes, the compact matchbox-style case conveniently houses a dozen durable, disposable mini files to be used anytime, anywhere.

image: press release
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